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Gene Technology

Edexcel A-level BiologyTopic 8 of 1617 lessons

Revision notes for Gene Technology in Edexcel Biology B (9BI0). Every lesson in BrainCake comes with R.E.C.I.P.E. recall steps, a quick check and spaced reviews.

  1. Producing Recombinant DNARecombinant DNA is DNA made by combining DNA from two different organisms.
  2. Identifying Transformed OrganismsWhen bacteria are mixed with recombinant plasmids, only a small proportion (often around 1%) take up the plasmid.
  3. VectorsA vector is used to carry a gene into a host cell.
  4. Gene GunsA gene gun fires DNA directly into cells.
  5. Liposome WrappingLiposome wrapping is a way of getting DNA into cells without using a virus.
  6. MicroinjectionMicroinjection puts DNA directly into a cell using a very fine glass micropipette, under a microscope.
  7. Gene SilencingGene silencing stops a gene being expressed, usually by preventing its mRNA from being translated into protein.
  8. Transgenic PlantsA transgenic plant contains a gene from a different species.
  9. Cloning PlantsPlants can be cloned to produce many offspring that are genetically identical to the parent.
  10. Genetic Modification of CropsCrops are genetically modified to give them characteristics that would be slow or impossible to achieve by selective breeding.
  11. Genetic Modification of Soya BeanSoya is one of the most widely grown GM crops.
  12. Gene Technology in AnimalsGenetic modification of animals is used in agriculture, medicine and research.
  13. Gene Technology in HumansGene technology is used to make human proteins for medicine, which were previously scarce, expensive or unsafe.
  14. Knockout MiceA knockout mouse has had a particular gene inactivated, so the gene's product is not made.
  15. Human Gene TherapyGene therapy treats a genetic disorder by inserting a functional allele of a gene into a patient's cells, so they can make the missing protein.
  16. EthicsGene technology raises ethical questions as well as scientific ones.
  17. Safety of GM CropsBefore a GM crop can be grown or eaten, it must be assessed for risks to human health and the environment.

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